Head appointed for new vet medicine course
Dr Mary-Kate Burke, the new head of the Department of Veterinary Medicine at South East Technological University. Picture: Patrick Browne
Dr Mary-Kate Burke has been appointed as head of the Department of Veterinary Medicine at South East Technological University (SETU), marking a milestone in the development of the university’s new veterinary medicine degree.
Dr Burke joined SETU as programme development lead for veterinary medicine and has played a leading role in shaping the university’s new five-year Bachelor of Veterinary Medicine degree, which is due to welcome its first students in September 2026.
A graduate of University College Dublin, Dr Burke brings extensive clinical and academic expertise to the position. Her career includes international equine practice, as well as clinical academic posts at the University of Cambridge and the University of Surrey. She also holds a master's in medical education and a fellowship of advanced Higher Education Authority.
The degree course will be delivered across three phases: foundation, clinical, and professional. In the final stage, students will complete workplace-based clinical rotations through SETU’s Veterinary Distributed Clinical Network. The large animal teaching element will be delivered in partnership with Teagasc Kildalton College in Piltown, Co Kilkenny.
Innovation will also be central to the programme, with students set to use tools such as 3D printing models, ultrasound, and X-rays to develop their knowledge of the underpinning sciences and to enhance clinical relevance and learning experience.
Students will also gain exposure to real-world cases through clinical partners and guest lectures.
